LT3091
1
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
Output Noise: 10Hz to 100kHz
Typical applicaTion
FeaTures DescripTion
–36V, 1.5A Negative
Linear Regulator with
Programmable Current Limit
The LT
®
3091 is a 1.5A, low dropout negative linear
regulator that is easily paralleled to increase output
current or spread heat on surface mounted boards.
Designed with a precision current reference followed by a
high performance rail-to-rail voltage buffer, this regulator
finds use in applications requiring precision output, high
current with no heat sink, output adjustability to zero and
low dropout voltage. The device can also be configured
as a 3-terminal floating regulator.
The LT3091 features fast transient response, high PSRR
and output noise as low as 18µVRMS. The LT3091 generates
a wide output voltage range (0V to –32V) while maintain-
ing unity gain operation. This yields virtually constant
bandwidth, load regulation, PSRR and noise, independent
of the programmed output voltage.
The LT3091 supplies 1.5A at a typical dropout voltage of
300mV. Operating quiescent current is nominally 1.2mA
and drops to << 1µA in shutdown. A single resistor ad-
justs the LT3091’s precision programmable current limit.
The devices positive or negative current monitor either
sources a current (0.25mA/A) or sinks a current (0.5mA/A)
proportional to output current. Built-in protection includes
reverse output protection, internal current limit with fold-
back and thermal shutdown with hysteresis.
applicaTions
L, LT, LTC, LTM, Linear Technology and the Linear logo are registered trademarks and
ThinSOT is a trademark of Linear Technology Corporation. All other trademarks are the property
of their respective owners. Patent Pending.
n Output Current: 1.5A
n Single Resistor Sets Output Voltage
n 50µA SET Pin Current: ±1% Initial Accuracy
n Programmable Current Limit
n Positive or Negative Output Current Monitor
n Parallelable for Higher Current and Heat Spreading
n Low Dropout Voltage: 300mV
n Low Output Noise: 18µVRMS (10Hz to 100kHz)
n Configurable as a 3-Terminal Floating Regulator
n Wide Input Voltage Range: –1.5V to –36V
n Rail-to-Rail Output Voltage Range: 0V to –32V
n Positive/Negative Shutdown Logic or UVLO
n Programmable Cable Drop Compensation
n Load Regulation: 1.2mV (1mA to 1.5A)
n Stable with 10µF Minimum Output Capacitor
n Stable with Ceramic or Tantalum Capacitors
n Thermally Enhanced 14-Lead 4mm × 3mm DFN,
16-Lead TSSOP, 7-Lead TO-220 and DD Packages
n Post Regulator for Switching Supplies
n Low Noise Instrumentation and RF Supplies
n Rugged Industrial Supplies
n Precision Power Supplies
VIN: –3.5V
COUT: 10µF, CSET: 0.1µF
VOUT: –2.5V
IL: 1.5A
1ms/DIV
VOUT
100µV/DIV
3091 G39
LT3091
VOUT
–2.5V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
SET GND
ILIM
SHDN
3091 TA01a
+
50µA
IMONP OUT
IMONN
0.1µF
10µF
49.9k 6.65k
TO ADC (IMON)
IN
VIN
–3V TO –10V
5k
3.3V
10µF
0.1µF
LT3091
2
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
pin conFiguraTion
absoluTe MaxiMuM raTings
IN Pin Voltage (Note 3)
with Respect to GND Pin ...........................0.3V, –40V
ILIM Pin Voltage
with Respect to IN Pin (Note 3) ................0.3V, 0.7V
IMONP Pin Voltage
with Respect to IN Pin (Note 3) .................0.3V, 40V
with Respect to GND Pin ............................40V, 20V
with Respect to IMONN Pin ........................40V, 20V
IMONN Pin Voltage
with Respect to IN Pin (Note 3) .................0.3V, 40V
with Respect to GND Pin ............................40V, 20V
SHDN Pin Voltage
with Respect to IN Pin (Note 3) .................0.3V, 55V
with Respect to GND Pin ............................40V, 20V
(Note 1)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
14
13
12
11
10
9
8
OUT
OUT
OUT
OUT
GND
SET
SHDN
IN
IN
IN
IN
ILIM
IMONP
IMONN
TOP VIEW
15
IN
DE PACKAGE
14-LEAD (4mm × 3mm) PLASTIC DFN
TJMAX = 150°C, θJA = 27°C/W, θJC = 5.5°C/W
EXPOSED PAD (PIN 15) IS IN, MUST BE SOLDERED TO PCB
FE PACKAGE
16-LEAD PLASTIC TSSOP
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
TOP VIEW
16
15
14
13
12
11
10
9
IN
IN
IN
IN
ILIM
IMONP
IMONN
NC
OUT
OUT
OUT
OUT
GND
SET
SHDN
NC
17
IN
TJMAX = 150°C, θJA = 25°C/W, θJC = 8°C/W
EXPOSED PAD (PIN 17) IS IN, MUST BE SOLDERED TO PCB
R PACKAGE
7-LEAD PLASTIC DD
FRONT VIEW
TAB
IS IN
OUT
GND
SET
IN
SHDN
IMONN
ILIM
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
TJMAX = 150°C, θJA = 15°C/W, θJC = 3°C/W
T7 PACKAGE
7-LEAD PLASTIC TO-220
OUT
GND
SET
IN
SHDN
IMONN
ILIM
FRONT VIEW
TAB
IS IN
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
TJMAX = 150°C, θJA = 34°C/W, θJC = 3°C/W
SET Pin Voltage
with Respect to IN Pin (Note 3) .................0.3V, 36V
with Respect to GND Pin ....................................±36V
SET Pin Current (Note 9)........................................±5mA
OUT Pin Voltage
with Respect to IN Pin (Note 3) .................0.3V, 36V
with Respect to GND Pin ....................................±36V
Output Short-Circuit Duration .......................... Indefinite
Operating Junction Temperature Range (Note 2)
E-, I-Grade ........................................ 40°C to 125°C
MP-Grade ......................................... 55°C to 150°C
H-Grade ............................................ 40°C to 150°C
Storage Temperature Range .................. 65°C to 150°C
Lead Temperature (Soldering, 10 Sec)
FE, R, T7 Packages .......................................... 300°C
LT3091
3
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
LEAD FREE FINISH TAPE AND REEL PART MARKING* PACKAGE DESCRIPTION TEMPERATURE RANGE
LT3091EDE#PBF LT3091EDE#TRPBF 3091 14-Lead (4mm × 3mm) Plastic DFN –40°C to 125°C
LT3091IDE#PBF LT3091IDE#TRPBF 3091 14-Lead (4mm × 3mm) Plastic DFN –40°C to 125°C
LT3091HDE#PBF LT3091HDE#TRPBF 3091 14-Lead (4mm × 3mm) Plastic DFN –40°C to 150°C
LT3091MPDE#PBF LT3091MPDE#TRPBF 3091 14-Lead (4mm × 3mm) Plastic DFN –55°C to 150°C
LT3091EFE#PBF LT3091EFE#TRPBF 3091FE 16-Lead Plastic TSSOP –40°C to 125°C
LT3091IFE#PBF LT3091IFE#TRPBF 3091FE 16-Lead Plastic TSSOP –40°C to 125°C
LT3091HFE#PBF LT3091HFE#TRPBF 3091FE 16-Lead Plastic TSSOP –40°C to 150°C
LT3091MPFE#PBF LT3091MPFE#TRPBF 3091FE 16-Lead Plastic TSSOP –55°C to 150°C
LT3091ER#PBF LT3091ER#TRPBF LT3091R 7-Lead Plastic DD-Pak –40°C to 125°C
LT3091IR#PBF LT3091IR#TRPBF LT3091R 7-Lead Plastic DD-Pak –40°C to 125°C
LT3091HR#PBF LT3091HR#TRPBF LT3091R 7-Lead Plastic DD-Pak –40°C to 150°C
LT3091MPR#PBF LT3091MPR#TRPBF LT3091R 7-Lead Plastic DD-Pak –55°C to 150°C
LT3091ET7#PBF N/A LT3091T7 7-Lead Plastic TO-220 –40°C to 125°C
LT3091IT7#PBF N/A LT3091T7 7-Lead Plastic TO-220 –40°C to 125°C
LT3091HT7#PBF N/A LT3091T7 7-Lead Plastic TO-220 –40°C to 150°C
LT3091MPT7#PBF N/A LT3091T7 7-Lead Plastic TO-220 –55°C to 150°C
Consult LTC Marketing for parts specified with wider operating temperature ranges. *The temperature grade is identified by a label on the shipping container.
For more information on lead free part marking, go to: http://www.linear.com/leadfree/
For more information on tape and reel specifications, go to: http://www.linear.com/tapeandreel/. Some packages are available in 500 unit reels through
designated sales channels with #TRMPBF suffix.
elecTrical characTerisTics
The l denotes the specifications which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifications are at TA = 25°C.
PARAMETER CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS
Minimum IN Voltage
(Note 11) ILOAD = 500mA
ILOAD = 1.5A
l
–1.9 –1.5
–1.5 V
V
SET Pin Current (ISET) VIN = –1.9V, ILOAD = 1mA
–36V < VIN < –1.9V, 1mA < ILOAD < 1.5A (Note 5)
l
49.5
49 50
50 50.5
51 µA
µA
Output Offset Voltage, VOS
(VOUT – VSET)VIN = –1.9V, ILOAD = 1mA
–36V < VIN < –1.9V, 1mA < ILOAD < 1.5A (Note 5) (DFN, TSSOP)
–36V < VIN < –1.9V, 1mA < ILOAD < 1.5A (Note 5) (DD-PAK, TO-220)
l
l
–1.2
–2
–3.5
1.2
2
3.5
mV
mV
mV
Line Regulation: ISET/VIN
Line Regulation: VOS/VIN
VIN = –1.9V to –36V, ILOAD = 1mA
VIN = –1.9V to –36V, ILOAD = 1mA 1.5
2.5 nA/V
µV/V
Load Regulation: ISET
Load Regulation: VOS
ILOAD = 1mA to 1.5A
ILOAD = 1mA to 1.5A, VIN = –1.9V (Note 6)
l
2.0
1.2
5.0 nA
mV
Output Regulation with SET
Pin Voltage Change:
ISET/VSET
VOS/VSET
VSET = 0V to –32V, VIN = –36V, ILOAD = 1mA
VSET = 0V to –32V, VIN = –36V, ILOAD = 1mA
l
l
0.2
2.5
2
40
nA/V
µV/V
orDer inForMaTion
(http://www.linear.com/product/LT3091#orderinfo)
LT3091
4
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
elecTrical characTerisTics
The l denotes the specifications which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifications are at TA = 25°C.
PARAMETER CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS
Dropout Voltage
VIN = VOUT(NOMINAL)
(Note 7)
DFN and TSSOP
TO-220 and DD-Pak
ILOAD = 1mA
ILOAD = 1mA
ILOAD = 100mA
ILOAD = 100mA
ILOAD = 500mA
ILOAD = 500mA
ILOAD = 1.5A
ILOAD = 1.5A
ILOAD = 1.5A
ILOAD = 1.5A
l
l
l
l
l
173
176
185
300
360
225
270
225
280
230
320
360
450
420
525
mV
mV
mV
mV
mV
mV
mV
mV
mV
mV
GND Pin Current
VIN = VOUT(NOMINAL)
(Note 8)
ILOAD = 20μA
ILOAD = 1mA
ILOAD = 100mA
ILOAD = 500mA
ILOAD = 1.5A
l
l
l
l
l
1.2
1.2
2.6
9.3
40
2.0
2.0
5.5
20
80
mA
mA
mA
mA
mA
Error Amplifier RMS Output
Noise (Note 12) ILOAD = 1.5A, BW = 10Hz to 100kHz, COUT = 10μF,
CSET = 0.1μF 18 μVRMS
Reference Current RMS
Output Noise (Note 12) BW = 10Hz to 100kHz 10 nARMS
Ripple Rejection
VIN – VOUT = –1.5V (Avg) VRIPPLE = 500mVP-P, fRIPPLE = 120Hz, ILOAD = 100mA, COUT = 10μF, CSET = 0.47μF
VRIPPLE = 50mVP-P, fRIPPLE = 10kHz, ILOAD = 1.5A, COUT = 10μF, CSET = 0.47μF
VRIPPLE = 50mVP-P, fRIPPLE = 1MHz, ILOAD = 1.5A, COUT = 10μF, CSET = 0.47μF
70 85
45
20
dB
dB
dB
SHDN Pin Turn-ON
Threshold Positive SHDN Rising
Negative SHDN Rising (in Magnitude)
l
l
1.14
–1.36 1.23
–1.27 1.32
–1.18 V
V
SHDN Pin Hysteresis Positive SHDN Hysteresis
Negative SHDN Hysteresis 180
190 mV
mV
SHDN Pin Current
(Note 10) VSHDN = 0V
VSHDN = 15V
VSHDN = –15V
–7
21
–4.5
±1
30 µA
µA
µA
Quiescent Current in
Shutdown VIN = –6V, VSHDN = 0V
VIN = –6V, VSHDN = 0V
l
0.1 1
20 µA
µA
Internal Current Limit
(Note 13) VIN = –1.9V, VOUT = 0V
VIN = –13V, VOUT = 0V
VIN = –36V, VOUT = 0V
VIN = –1.9V, VOUT < 10mV
l
l
l
1600
20
1550
1900
840
65
1850
2200
120
2150
mA
mA
mA
mA
Programmable Current
Limit Programmable Scale Factor: –36V < VIN < –1.9V,
IOUT > 100mA (Note 14)
Max IOUT: VIN = –1.9V, RILIM = 13.3k
Max IOUT: VIN = –1.9V, RILIM = 40k
l
l
1.35
450
20
1.5
500
1.65
550
A
A
mA
Positive Current Monitor
(Note 15) Positive Current Monitoring (IMONP) Scale Factor
IOUT = 500mA, VIN = –2.5V, VIMONN = 2V, VIMONP = 0V
IOUT = 1.5A, VIN = –2.5V, VIMONN = 2V, VIMONP = 0V
l
l
113
338
0.25
125
375
137
412
mA/A
µA
µA
Negative Current Monitor Negative Current Monitoring (IMONN) Scale Factor
IOUT = 500mA, VIN = –2.5V, VIMONN = 0V, VIMONP = –2.5V
IOUT = 1.5A, VIN = –2.5V, VIMONN = 0V, VIMONP = –2.5V
l
l
225
675
0.5
250
750
275
825
mA/A
µA
µA
Minimum Required Load
Current (Note 4) –36V < VIN < –1.9V l20 μA
Thermal Regulation ISET 10ms Pulse 0.04 %/W
LT3091
5
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
Note 1. Stresses beyond those listed under Absolute Maximum Ratings
may cause permanent damage to the device. Exposure to any Absolute
Maximum Rating condition for extended periods may affect device
reliability and lifetime.
Note 2. The LT3091 is tested and specified under pulsed load conditions
such that TJ TA. The LT3091E is guaranteed to meet performance
specifications from 0°C to 125°C junction temperature. Specifications over
the –40°C to 125°C operating temperature range are assured by design,
characterization, and correlation with statistical process controls. The
LT3091I is guaranteed over the full –40°C to 125°C operating junction
temperature range. The LT3091MP is 100% tested and guaranteed
over the full –55°C to 150°C operating junction temperature range. The
LT3091H is 100% tested at the 150°C operating junction temperature.
High junction temperatures degrade operating lifetimes. Operating lifetime
is derated at junction temperatures greater than 125°C.
Note 3. Parasitic diodes exist internally between the OUT, SET, ILIM,
SHDN, IMONP, IMONN, and GND pins and the IN pin. Do not drive OUT,
SET, ILIM, SHDN, IMONP, IMONN, and GND pins more than 0.3V below
the IN pin during fault conditions. These pins must remain at a voltage
more positive than IN during normal operation.
Note 4. The LT3091 may go out of regulation if the minimum output
current requirement is not satisfied.
Note 5. Maximum junction temperature limits operating conditions. The
regulated output voltage specification does not apply for all possible
combinations of input voltage and output current, primarily due to the
internal current limit foldback which decreases current limit at VOUT
VIN7V. If operating at maximum output current, limit the input voltage
range. If operating at maximum input voltage, limit the output current
range.
Note 6. Load regulation is Kelvin sensed at the package.
Note 7. Dropout voltage is the minimum output-to-input voltage
differential needed to maintain regulation at a specified output current. In
dropout, the output voltage is: VIN + VDROPOUT.
Note 8. GND pin current is tested with VIN = VOUT(NOMINAL) and a current
source load. Therefore, the device is tested while operating in dropout.
This is the worst-case GND pin current. GND pin current decreases at
higher input voltages.
Note 9. The SET pin is clamped to OUT with diodes through 12k resistors.
These resistors and diodes only carry current under transient overloads or
fault conditions.
Note 10. Positive SHDN pin current flows into the SHDN pin.
Note 11. The SHDN threshold must be met to ensure device operation.
Note 12. Output noise decreases by adding a capacitor across the voltage
setting resistor. Adding this capacitor bypasses the voltage setting
resistor’s thermal noise as well as the reference current’s noise. Output
noise then equals the error amplifier noise (see Applications Information
section).
Note 13. The internal back-up current limit circuitry incorporates foldback
protection that decreases current limit for VOUT – VIN ≥ 7V. Some level of
output current is provided at all VOUT – VIN differential voltages. Please
consult the Typical Performance Characteristic graph for current limit vs
VOUT – VIN.
Note 14. The current limit programming scale factor is specified while
the internal backup current limit is not active. Please note that the internal
current limit has foldback protection for VOUT-to-VIN differentials greater
than 7V.
Note 15. For positive current monitoring, bias IMONN to ≥ 2V above
IMONP.
elecTrical characTerisTics
Typical perForMance characTerisTics
TJ = 25°C, unless otherwise noted.
SET Pin Current SET Pin Current Offset Voltage (VOUT – VSET)
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75
SET PIN CURRENT (µA)
50.5
50.4
50.2
50.0
50.3
50.1
49.9
49.8
49.7
49.6
49.5 25–25 75 100 125
3091 G01
1500–50 50
IL = 1mA
VOUT = –1.25V
VIN = –1.9V
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75
OFFSET VOLTAGE (mV)
2.0
1.5
0.5
0
1.0
–0.5
–1.0
–1.5
–2.0 25–25 75 100 125
3091 G03
1500–50 50
IL = 1mA
VOUT = –1.25V
VIN = –1.9V
49 49.5 50.5
3091 G02
5150
DISTRIBUTION (µA)
N = 4726
LT3091
6
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
Typical perForMance characTerisTics
Offset Voltage Set Pin Current Offset Voltage (VOUT – VSET)
Set Pin Current Offset Voltage (VOUT – VSET) Load Regulation
TJ = 25°C, unless otherwise noted.
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
0
SET PIN CURRENT (µA)
50.5
50.4
50.2
50.0
50.3
50.1
49.9
49.8
49.7
49.6
49.5 –20–10 –30 –35
3091 G05
–40–15–5 –25
IL = 1mA
VOUT = –1.25V
–55°C
25°C
125°C
150°C
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
0
OFFSET VOLTAGE (mV)
2.0
1.5
0
1.0
0.5
–0.5
–1.0
–1.5
–2.0 –20–10 –30 –35
3091 G06
–40–15–5 –25
IL = 1mA
VOUT = –1.25V
–55°C
25°C
125°C
150°C
OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
0
SET PIN CURRENT (µA)
50.5
50.4
50.2
50.0
50.3
50.1
49.9
49.8
49.7
49.6
49.5 8 24 28
3091 G07
3216124 20
IL = 1mA
VIN = –36V
–55°C
25°C
125°C
150°C
OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
0
OFFSET VOLTAGE (mV)
2.0
1.5
0
1.0
0.5
–0.5
–1.0
–1.5
–2.0 –8 –24 –28
3091 G08
–32–16–12–4 –20
IL = 1mA
VIN = –36V
–55°C
25°C
125°C
150°C
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75
SET PIN CURRENT LOAD REGULATION (nA)
OFFSET VOLTAGE LOAD REGULATION (mV)
30
20
10
0
–10
–20
2.5
2.0
1.5
1.0
0.5
0
–25 75 125100
3091 G09
150250–50 50
∆IL = 1mA to 1.5A
VIN = –1.9V
VOUT = –1.25V
–2 –1 1
3091 G04
20
VOS DISTRIBUTION (mV)
N = 4726
Quiescent Current Typical Dropout Voltage
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75
QUIESCENT CURRENT (mA)
1.4
1.2
0.8
0.6
1.0
0.4
0.2
025–25 75 100 125
3091 G10
1500–50 50
RL = 61.9kΩ (20µA)
VOUT = –1.25V
VIN = –1.9V
VSHDN = VIN
VSHDN = 0V
OUTPUT CURRENT (A)
0
DROPOUT VOLTAGE (mV)
450
350
300
400
200
150
100
50
250
01 1.25
3091 G11
1.50.500.25 0.75
–55°C
25°C
125°C
150°C
LT3091
7
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
Typical perForMance characTerisTics
Dropout Voltage
GND Pin Current GND Pin Current Entering Dropout Minimum Input Voltage
SHDN Turn-On Threshold SHDN Pin Hysteresis
Guaranteed Dropout Voltage
(TO-220 and DD Packages)
OUTPUT CURRENT (A)
0
GND PIN CURRENT (mA)
45
35
40
20
15
10
5
25
00.8 1.20.6 1.0 1.4
3091 G15
1.60.2 0.4
VIN = –3.5V
VOUT = –3V
–55°C
25°C
125°C
150°C
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
–2.5 –2.6 –2.7 –2.8 –2.9 –3 –3.1 –3.2 –3.3 –3.4 –3.5
GND PIN CURRENT (mA)
40
45
30
25
20
15
10
5
35
0
3091 G16
VOUT(NOMINAL) = –3V
IL = 500mA
IL = 100mA IL = 1mA
IL = 1.5A
IL = 1A
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75 –50 –25 025 50 75 100 125 150
MINIMUM INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
–1.8
–2.0
–1.4
–1.2
–1.0
–0.8
–0.6
–0.4
–0.2
–1.6
0
3091 G17
RSET = 25kΩ
IL = 1mA
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75 –50 –25 025 50 75 100 125 150
SHDN PIN HYSTERESIS (V)
0.30
0.15
0.20
0.10
0.05
0.25
0
3091 G19
VIN = –1.9V
POSITIVE SHDN HYSTERESIS
NEGATIVE SHDN HYSTERESIS
TJ = 25°C, unless otherwise noted.
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75
DROPOUT VOLTAGE (mV)
450
350
300
400
200
150
100
50
250
025 50 75 100 125
3091 G14
150–25–50 0
IL = 1.5A
IL = 500mA
IL = 1A
IL = 1mA IL = 100mA
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75
POSITIVE SHDN TURN-ON THERSHOLD (V)
NEGATIVE SHDN TURN-ON THRESHOLD (V)
1.300
1.275
1.250
1.225
1.200
1.175
1.150
–1.300
–1.275
–1.250
–1.225
–1.200
–1.175
–1.150
–25 75 125100
3091 G18
150250–50 50
VIN = –1.9V
Guaranteed Dropout Voltage
(DFN and MSOP Packages)
OUTPUT CURRENT (mA)
0
DROPOUT VOLTAGE (mV)
600
500
300
400
200
100
01000 1250
3091 G12
1500500250 750
TJ ≤ 150°C
TJ ≤ 25°C
OUTPUT CURRENT (mA)
0
DROPOUT VOLTAGE (mV)
600
500
300
400
200
100
01000 1250
3091 G13
1500500250 750
TJ ≤ 150°C
TJ ≤ 25°C
LT3091
8
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
IMONN Pin Current at 1.5A IMONN Pin Current at 500mA IMONP Pin Current
IMONP Pin Current at 1.5A IMONP Pin Current at 500mA Programmable Current Limit
SHDN Pin Current SHDN Pin Current IMONN Pin Current
Typical perForMance characTerisTics
SHDN PIN VOLTAGE (V)
–36 –28 –20 –12 –4 412 20
SHDN PIN CURRENT (µA)
35
30
15
20
10
5
0
–5
–10
25
–15
3091 G20
VIN = –36V
–55°C
25°C
125°C
150°C
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75 –50 –25 025 50 75 100 125 150
IMONN CURRENT (µA)
800
780
770
760
750
720
740
710
730
790
700
3091 G23
VOUT = –1.2V
VIMONN = –0.5V
VIMONP = VIN
ILOAD = 1.5A
VIN = –3V
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75 –50 –25 025 50 75 100 125 150
IMONN CURRENT (µA)
268
262
259
253
250
235
247
244
241
238
265
232
3091 G24
VOUT = –1.2V
VIMONN = –0.5V
VIMONP = VIN
ILOAD = 500mA
VIN = –3V
TJ = 25°C, unless otherwise noted.
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75 –50 –25 025 50 75 100 125 150
IMONP CURRENT (µA)
400
385
370
360
365
350
395
380
390
375
350
3091 G26
VIN = –3V
VOUT = –1.2V
VIMONN = 3V
VIMONP = 0.5
ILOAD = 1.5A
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75 –50 –25 025 50 75 100 125 150
IMONP CURRENT (µA)
133
129
125
121
123
119
131
127
117
3091 G27
VIN = –3V
VOUT = –1.2V
VIMONN = 3V
VIMONP = 0.5
ILOAD = 500mA
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75 –50 –25 025 50 75 100 125 150
CURRENT LIMIT (mA)
1.6
1.3
1.0
1.5
1.2
0.9
1.4
1.1
0.8
0.7
0.5
0.3
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.1
0
3091 G28
RILIM = 13.3k
RILIM = 20k
RILIM = 40k
VIN = –2V
VOUT = 0V
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75 –50 –25 025 50 75 100 125 150
SHDN PIN CURRENT (µA)
30
25
15
10
5
0
20
–10
–5
3091 G21
VSHDN = 15V
VSHDN = –15V
VIN = –15V
OUTPUT CURRENT (A)
00.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.61.4
IMONP CURRENT (µA)
400
350
250
200
100
150
50
300
0
3091 G25
VOUT = –1.2V
VIN = –3V
VIMONN = 3V
VIMONP = 0.5V
OUTPUT CURRENT (A)
00.2 0.4 0.6 1.0 1.40.8 1.2 1.6
IMONN CURRENT (µA)
800
700
500
400
300
200
100
600
0
3091 G22
VIN = –3V
VOUT = –1.2V
VIMONN = –0.5V
VIMONP = VIN
LT3091
9
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
TJ = 25°C, unless otherwise noted.
Typical perForMance characTerisTics
Internal Current Limit Input Ripple Rejection Input Ripple Rejection
Input Ripple Rejection Ripple Rejection (120Hz)
Programmable Brick-Wall Current
Limit Internal Current Limit Internal Current Limit
RMS Output Noise
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75 –50 –25 025 50 75 100 125 150
CURRENT LIMIT (mA)
100
90
70
30
50
10
80
40
60
20
0
VIN = –36V
VOUT = 0V
INPUT-TO-OUTPUT DIFFERENTIAL (V)
0
CURRENT LIMIT (A)
2.0
1.2
0.8
0.6
1.6
1.8
1.4
1.0
0.4
0.2
0–12 –24 –30
3091 G32
–36–18–6
–55°C
25°C
125°C
150°C
VOUT = 0V
OUTPUT CURRENT (A)
01.50.5 1.0
OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
1.4
1.2
1.0
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0
3091 G29
RILIM = 13.3kRILIM = 40k
RILIM = 20k
RSET = 25k
VIN = –3V
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75 –50 –25 025 50 75 100 125 150
CURRENT LIMIT (A)
2.0
1.8
1.6
1.4
1.2
1.0
0.8
0.4
0.6
0.2
0
3091 G30
VIN = –1.9V
VOUT = 0V
FREQUENCY (Hz)
RIPPLE REJECTION (dB)
3091 G33
80
70
60
50
30
40
20
10
010 100 1k 1M 10M100k10k
VOUT = –2.5V
ILOAD = 1.5A
CSET = 0.1µF
INPUT RIPPLE = 50mVRMS
–3.5VIN
–4VIN
FREQUENCY (Hz)
RIPPLE REJECTION (dB)
3091 G34
90
80
70
60
50
30
40
20
10
010 100 1k 1M 10M100k10k
VOUT = –2.5V
VIN = –3.5V
CSET = 0.1µF
INPUT RIPPLE = 50mVRMS
IL = 1.5A
IL = 500mA
IL = 100mA
FREQUENCY (Hz)
RIPPLE REJECTION (dB)
3091 G35
100
90
80
70
50
60
40
30
20
10
010 100 1k 1M 10M100k10k
VOUT = –2.5V
ILOAD = 1.5A
CSET = 0.1µF
INPUT RIPPLE = 50mVRMS
COUT = 10µF, CSET = 0.1µF
COUT = 10µF, CSET = 0.47µF
COUT = 22µF, CSET = 0.1µF
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–75
RIPPLE REJECTION (dB)
100
90
85
95
80
75
70 25–25 75 100 125
3091 G36
1500–50 50
VIN = –4V
VOUT = –2.5V
ILOAD = 1.5A
CSET = 0.47µF
COUT = 10µF
SET PIN CAPACITANCE (nF)
0.1 1
OUTPUT NOISE (µVRMS)
1000
10
100
10010
3091 G7
1000
LT3091
10
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
TJ = 25°C, unless otherwise noted.
Typical perForMance characTerisTics
Load Transient Response, –3VOUT
Output Noise: 10Hz to 100kHz Output Noise: 10Hz to 100kHz
Fast Input Supply Start-Up
Line Transient Response
Slow Input Supply Ramp-Up and
Ramp-Down Fast Input Supply Start-Up
Fast SHDN Start-Up Fast SHDN Start-Up
VIN: –5V TO –4V
COUT: 10µF, CSET: 0.1µF
VOUT: –3V
IL: 1.5A, SHDN = IN
5µs/DIV
VOUT
50mV/DIV
VIN
500mV/DIV
3091 G41
VIN: –3.5V
COUT: 10µF, CSET: 20pF
VOUT: –2V
IL: 1.5A
1ms/DIV
VOUT
1mV/DIV
3091 G38
VIN: –3.5V
COUT: 10µF, CSET: 0.1µF
VOUT: –2.5V
IL: 1.5A
1ms/DIV
VOUT
100µV/DIV
3091 G39
VIN: 0V TO –5V
COUT: 10µF, CSET: 0.1µF
VOUT: 0V TO –3V
IL: 1.5A, SHDN = IN
5ms/DIV
0V
VOUT
1V/DIV
VIN
2V/DIV
0V
3091 G44
ILOAD: 20mA TO 1.5A
COUT: 10µF, CSET: 0.1µF
VOUT: –3V
VIN = –4V, SHDN = IN
20µs/DIV
ILOAD
500mA/DIV
VOUT
100mV/DIV
3091 G40
VIN: –5V TO 0V
COUT: 10µF, CSET: 0.1µF
VOUT: –3V TO 0V
IL: 1.5A, SHDN = IN
50ms/DIV
VIN
1V/DIV
VOUT
1V/DIV
0V
3091 G42
VIN: 0V TO –5V
COUT: 10µF, CSET: 100pF
VOUT: 0V TO –3V
IL: 1.5A, SHDN = IN
20µs/DIV
VOUT
1V/DIV
VIN
2V/DIV
0V
0V
3091 G43
VIN: –5V
COUT: 10µF, CSET: 100pF
20µs/DIV
0V
VOUT
1V/DIV
VSHDN
2V/DIV
0V
3091 G45
VIN: –5V
COUT: 10µF, CSET: 0.1µF
5ms/DIV
0V
VOUT
1V/DIV
VSHDN
2V/DIV
0V
3091 G46
LT3091
11
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
pin FuncTions
IN (Pins 1–4, Exposed Pad 15/Pins 1–4, Exposed Pad17/
Pin 4, Tab/Pin 4, Tab): Input. These pins supply power to
the regulator. The exposed backside pad of the DFN and
TSSOP packages, as well as the tab of the DD-Pak and
TO-220 packages, is an electrical connection to IN and
the device’s substrate. For proper electrical and thermal
performance, tie all IN pins together and tie IN to the
exposed backside/tab of the package on the PCB. See the
Applications Information section for thermal considerations
and calculating junction temperature. The LT3091 requires
a bypass capacitor at IN. In general, a battery’s output
impedance rises with frequency, so include a bypass ca-
pacitor in battery powered applications. An input bypass
capacitor in the range of 4.7µF to 10µF generally suffices,
but applications with large load transients or longer input
lines may require higher input capacitance to prevent input
supply droop or input ringing.
ILIM (Pin 5/Pin 5/Pin 1/Pin 1): Current Limit Programming
Pin. Connecting an external resistor between the ILIM
and IN pins programs the current limit set point. For best
accuracy, Kelvin connect this resistor to the IN pins. The
programming scale factor is nominally 20A kΩ. Current
limit is accurate to ±10% over temperature. If unused, tie
ILIM to IN and the internal current limit protects the part.
A parasitic substrate diode exists between the LT3091’s
ILIM and IN pins. Therefore, do not drive ILIM more than
0.3V below IN during normal operation or during a fault
condition.
IMONP (Pin 6/Pin 6/NA/NA): Positive Current Monitoring
Pin. For positive current monitoring, connect a resistor
between IMONP and GND. IMONP sources current equal to
1/4000 of output current. For negative current monitoring,
tie this pin to IN. For proper operation, IN and IMONP must
be at least 2V below IMONN. If unused, tie IMONP to IN.
A parasitic substrate diode exists between the LT3091’s
IMONP and IN pins. Therefore, do not drive IMONP more
than 0.3V below IN during normal operation or during a
fault condition.
IMONN (Pin 7/Pin 7/Pin 2/Pin 2): Negative Current Monitor-
ing Pin. For negative current monitoring, connect a resistor
between IMONN and GND. IMONN sinks current equal to
1/2000 of output current. For positive current monitor-
ing, bias IMONN to a positive supply voltage (at least 2V
above IMONP). If unused, tie IMONN to the GND pin. A
parasitic substrate diode exists between the LT3091’s
IMONN and IN pins. Therefore, do not drive IMONN more
than 0.3V below IN during normal operation or during a
fault condition.
SHDN (Pin 8/Pin 10/Pin 3/Pin 3): Shutdown. Use the SHDN
pin to put the LT3091 into a micropower shutdown state
and to turn off the output voltage. The SHDN function is
bidirectional, allowing either positive or negative logic to
turn the regulator ON/OFF. The SHDN pin threshold volt-
ages are referenced to GND. The output of the LT3091 is
OFF if the SHDN pin is pulled within ±0.45V of GND. Driv-
ing the SHDN pin more than ±1.4V turns the LT3091 ON.
Drive the SHDN pin with either a logic gate or with open
collector/drain logic using a pull-up resistor. The resistor
supplies the pull-up current of the open collector/drain
gate. The maximum SHDN pin current is 7µA out of the
pin (for negative logic) or 30µA into the pin (for positive
logic). If the SHDN function is unused, connect the SHDN
pin to VIN or a positive bias voltage to turn the device ON.
Do not float the SHDN pin. As detailed in the Applications
Information section, the SHDN pin can also be used to set
a programmable undervoltage lockout (UVLO) threshold. A
parasitic diode exists between the LT3091’s SHDN and IN
pins. Therefore, do not drive SHDN more than 0.3V below
IN during normal operation or during a fault condition.
SET (Pin 9/Pin 11/Pin 5/Pin 5): SET. This pin is the invert-
ing input to the error amplifier and the regulation setpoint
for the device. A precision fixed current of 50µA flows into
this pin. Connecting a resistor from SET to GND programs
the LT3091’s output voltage. Output voltage range is from
(DFN/TSSOP/R/T7)
LT3091
12
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
pin FuncTions
(DFN/TSSOP/R/T7)
zero to –32V. Adding a bypass capacitor from SET to GND
improves transient response, PSRR, noise performance
and soft starts the output. Kelvin connect the GND side of
the SET pin resistor to the load for optimum load regulation
performance. A parasitic substrate diode exists between
the LT3091’s SET and IN pins. Therefore, do not drive
SET more than 0.3V below IN during normal operation
or during a fault condition.
GND (Pin 10/Pin 12/Pin 6/Pin 6): Ground. This pin supplies
the LT3091's quiescent current and the drive current to
the NPN pass transistor. The LT3091's GND pin is highly
versatile. Depending on application’s requirements, it
can be tied to the system ground, a positive voltage, or
the OUT pin. A parasitic substrate diode exists between
the LT3091’s GND and IN pins. Therefore, do not drive
GND more than 0.3V below IN during normal operation
or during a fault condition.
OUT (Pins 11–14/Pins 13–16/Pin 7/Pin 7): Output. These
pins supply power to the load. Tie all OUT pins together
for best performance. Use a minimum output capacitor of
10µF with an ESR less than 500mΩ to prevent oscillations.
As mentioned in the Electrical Characteristics table, a
minimum load current of 20µA is required to prevent
instability. Large load transient applications require larger
output capacitors to limit peak voltage transients. See the
Applications Information section for more information
on output capacitance. A parasitic substrate diode exists
between OUT and IN pins of the LT3091. Therefore, do
not drive OUT more than 0.3V below IN during normal
operation or during a fault condition.
NC (NA/Pins 8–9/NA/NA): No Connection. No connect
pins have no connection to internal circuitry and may be
tied to VIN, GND or floated.
LT3091
13
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
block DiagraM
+
50µA
RAIL-TO-RAIL
ERROR AMP
20.25µA
OUT SHDN GND IMONN
0.0675Ω
6.33k
INTERNAL
CURRENT LIMIT
–1.27V
1.23V
BIDIRECTIONAL SHUTDOWN
3091 BD
RSET RLOAD
COUT
DRIVER
+
+
+
+
+
+
3k
135Ω
ILIMIN IMONP
POSITIVE OR NEGATIVE
CURRENT MONITOR
PROGRAMMABLE CURRENT LIMIT
2x 1x 225mV
+
V
RILIM
CIN
IN
SET
BIAS
LT3091
14
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
The LT3091 is a 1.5A, rail-to-rail output, negative low
dropout linear regulator featuring very low output noise,
high bandwidth, precision programmable current limit,
precision positive or negative current monitor, and bi-
directional shutdown. The LT3091 supplies 1.5A at a
typical dropout voltage of 300mV. Unlike other devices,
the LT3091 does not require a separate supply to achieve
low dropout performance. The 1.2mA quiescent current
drops to well below 1µA in shutdown.
The LT3091 is easy to use and incorporates all of the pro-
tection features expected in high performance regulators.
Included are short circuit protection, safe operating area
protection, as well as thermal shutdown with hysteresis.
In bipolar supply applications where the regulator’s load
is returned to a positive supply, OUT can be pulled above
GND up to 36V and still allow the LT3091 to safely startup.
Output Voltage
The LT3091 incorporates a zero TC 50µA reference cur-
rent source that flows into the SET pin. The SET pin is
the inverting input of the error amp. Connecting a resistor
from SET to ground generates a voltage that becomes the
reference point for the error amplifier (see Figure 1). The
reference voltage is a straight multiplication of the SET pin
current and the resistor value (Ohm’s Law, V = I R). The
rail-to-rail error amp’s unity gain configuration produces
a low impedance voltage on its noninverting input, i.e.
the OUT pin. Output voltage is programmable from 0V
(using zero Ω resistor) to VIN plus dropout. Table 1 lists
many common output voltages and its corresponding 1%
RSET resistance.
Table 1. 1% Resistor for Common Output Voltages
VOUT (V) RSET (kΩ)
–2.5 49.9
–3 60.4
–3.3 66.5
–5 100
–12 243
–15 301
applicaTions inForMaTion
The benefits of using a current reference, as opposed to a
voltage reference as in conventional regulators such as the
LT1185, LT1175, LT1964 and LT3015, is that the device
always operates in a unity gain configuration, regardless
of the programmed output voltage. This allows the LT3091
to have loop gain, frequency response, and bandwidth
independent of the output voltage. Moreover, none of the
error amp gain is needed to amplify the set pin voltage to
a higher output voltage (in magnitude). As a result, output
load regulation is specified in terms of millivolts and not
a fixed percentage of the output voltage.
Since the zero TC current source is very accurate, the SET
pin resistor is the limiting factor in achieving high accu-
racy; hence, it must be a precision resistor. Moreover, any
leakage paths to and from the SET pin create errors in the
output voltage. If necessary, use high quality insulation (e.g.
Teflon, Kel-F); moreover, cleaning of all insulating surfaces
to remove fluxes and other residues may be required. High
humidity environments may require a surface coating at
the SET pin to provide a moisture barrier.
Minimize board leakage by encircling the SET pin with a
guard ring operated at a potential close to itself – ideally
the guard ring should be tied to the OUT pin. Guarding
both sides of the circuit board is required. Bulk leakage
Figure 1. Basic Adjustable Regulator
LT3091
VOUT
–2.5V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
SET GND
ILIM
SHDN 3091 F01
+
50µA
IMONN OUT
0.1µF
CIN
10µF
RSET
49.9k
IN
VIN
–3V TO –10V
RILIM
IMONP
COUT
10µF
5k
LT3091
15
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
applicaTions inForMaTion
reduction depends on the guard ring width. Leakages as
small as 50nA into or out of the SET pin creates a 0.1%
error in the reference voltage. Leakages of this magnitude,
coupled with other sources of leakage, can cause significant
errors in the output voltage, especially over wide operating
temperature range. Figure 2 illustrates a typical guard ring
layout technique.
If guard ring techniques are used, then SET pin stray
capacitance is practically eliminated. Since the SET pin
is a high impedance node, unwanted signals may couple
into the SET pin and cause erratic behavior. This is most
noticeable when operating with a minimum output capacitor
at light load currents. The simplest remedy is to bypass
the SET pin with a small capacitance to ground 100pF
is generally sufficient.
30-AWG wire with a diameter of 0.01". One foot of 30-AWG
wire has 465nH of self inductance.
Several methods exist to reduce a wire’s self inductance.
One method divides the current flowing towards the
LT3091 between two parallel conductors. In this case,
placing the wires further apart reduces the inductance; up
to a 50% reduction when placed only a few inches apart.
Splitting the wires connects two equal inductors in parallel.
However, when placed in close proximity to each other,
mutual inductance adds to the overall self inductance of
the wires. The second and most effective technique to
reduce overall inductance is to place the forward and
return current conductors (the input wire and the ground
wire) in close proximity. Two 30-AWG wires separated by
0.02" reduce the overall self inductance to about one-fifth
of a single wire.
If a battery, mounted in close proximity, powers the
LT3091, a 10µF input capacitor suffices for stability.
However, if a distantly located supply powers the LT3091,
use a larger value input capacitor. Use a rough guideline
of 1µF (in addition to the 10µF minimum) per 8" of wire
length. The minimum input capacitance needed to stabi-
lize the application also varies with power supply output
impedance variations. Placing additional capacitance on
the LT3091’s output also helps. However, this requires
an order of magnitude more capacitance in comparison
with additional LT3091 input bypassing. Series resistance
between the supply and the LT3091 input also helps stabi-
lize the application; as little as 0.1Ω to 0.5Ω suffices. This
impedance dampens the LC tank circuit at the expense of
dropout voltage. A better alternative is to use higher ESR
tantalum or electrolytic capacitors at the LT3091 input in
place of ceramic capacitors.
Stability and Output Capacitance
The LT3091 requires an output capacitor for stability. It is
stable with low ESR capacitors (such as ceramic, tantalum
or low ESR electrolytic). A minimum output capacitor of
10µF with an ESR of 500mΩ or less is recommended to
prevent oscillations. Larger values of output capacitance
Figure 2. Guard Ring Layout for DFN
Stability and Input Capacitance
The LT3091 is stable with a minimum of 10µF capacitor
placed at the IN pin. Low ESR ceramic capacitors can be
used. However, in cases where long wires connect the
power supply to the LT3091’s input and ground, the use
of low value input capacitors combined with a large output
load current may result in instability. The resonant LC tank
circuit formed by the wire inductance and the input capaci-
tor is the cause and not because of LT3091 instability.
The self inductance, or isolated inductance, of a wire
is directly proportional to its length. However, the wire
diameter has less influence on its self inductance. For
example, the self inductance of a 2-AWG isolated wire
with a diameter of 0.26" is about half the inductance of a
3091 F02
OUT
SET
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
14
13
12
11
10
9
8
15
IN
LT3091
16
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
applicaTions inForMaTion
decrease peak output deviations during a load transient.
The LT3091 requires a minimum 20µA load current to
maintain stability under all operating conditions.
Give extra consideration to the use of ceramic capacitors.
Ceramic capacitors are manufactured with a variety of di-
electrics, each with different behavior across temperature
and applied voltage. The most common dielectrics used
are specified with EIA temperature characteristic codes of
Z5U, Y5V, X5R and X7R. The Z5U and Y5V dielectrics are
good for providing high capacitance in small packages, but
they have strong voltage and temperature coefficients as
shown in Figures 3 and 4. When used with a 5V regulator,
a 16V 10µF Y5V capacitor can exhibit an effective value
as low as 1µF to 2µF for the DC bias voltage applied over
the operating temperature range.
Figure 3. Ceramic Capacitor DC Bias Characteristics
Figure 4. Ceramic Capacitor Temperature Characteristics
The X5R and X7R dielectrics result in more stable character-
istics, and are thus more suitable for use as the regulator’s
output capacitor. The X7R dielectric has better stability
across temperature, while X5R is less expensive and is
available in higher values. Nonetheless, care must still be
exercised when using X5R and X7R capacitors. The X5R
and X7R codes only specify operating temperature range
and the maximum capacitance change over temperature.
While capacitance change due to DC bias for X5R and
X7R is better than Y5V and Z5U dielectrics, it can still be
significant enough to drop capacitance below sufficient
levels. Capacitor DC bias characteristics tend to improve
as component case size increases, but verification of
expected capacitance at the operating voltage is highly
recommended.
Voltage and temperature coefficients are not the only
sources of problems. Some ceramic capacitors have a
piezoelectric response. A piezoelectric device generates a
voltage across its terminals due to mechanical stress upon
it, similar to how a piezoelectric microphone works. For a
ceramic capacitor the stress can be induced by mechanical
vibrations within the system or due to thermal transients.
Output Noise Analysis
The LT3091 offers many advantages with respect to noise
performance. Traditional linear regulators have several
sources of noise. The most critical noise sources for an
LDO are its voltage reference, the error amplifier, the noise
of the resistors in the divider network setting output volt-
age and the noise gain created by this resistor divider.
Many low noise regulators pin out the voltage reference
to allow for bypassing and noise reduction of the refer-
ence. Unlike other linear regulators, the LT3091 does not
use a traditional voltage reference, but instead it uses a
50µA current source reference. That current operates
with typical noise current levels of 31.6pA/√Hz (10nARMS
over a 10Hz to 100kHz bandwidth). The voltage noise
equals the noise current multiplied by the resistor value.
The resistor itself generates spot noise equal to √4kTR
(whereby k = Boltzmann’s constant, 1.38 10–23 J/K and
T is the absolute temperature) which is RMS summed
with the reference current noise.
DC BIAS VOLTAGE (V)
0
CHANGE IN VALUE (%)
–20
0
20
6 10
3091 F03
–40
–60
2 4 8 12 14 16
–80
–100
BOTH CAPACITORS ARE 16V
1210 CASE SIZE, 10µF
Y5V
X5R
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–50
CHANGE IN VALUE (%)
–20
0
40
20
25 75
3091 F04
–40
–60
–25 0 50 100 125
–80
–100
BOTH CAPACITORS ARE 16V
1210 CASE SIZE, 10µF
Y5V
X5R
LT3091
17
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
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One problem that conventional linear regulators face is
that the resistor divider setting VOUT gains up the refer-
ence noise. In contrast, the LT3091’s unity gain follower
architecture presents no gain from the SET pin to the
output. Therefore, output noise is virtually independent
of the output voltage setting if a capacitor bypasses the
SET pin. Resultant output noise is then set by the error
amplifier’s noise, typically 57nV/√Hz (18µVRMS in a 10Hz
to 100kHz bandwidth).
Curves in the Typical Performance Characteristics sec-
tion show noise spectral density and peak-to-peak noise
characteristics for both the reference current and the error
amplifier over a 10Hz to 100kHz bandwidth.
Set Pin (Bypass) Capacitance: Output Noise, PSRR,
Transient Response and Soft-Start
Bypassing the SET pin’s voltage setting resistor with a
capacitor lowers output noise. The Typical Performance
Characteristics section illustrates that connecting a 0.1µF
from SET to GND yields output noise as low as 18µVRMS.
Paralleling multiple LT3091s further reduces noise by √N,
for N parallel regulators. Curves in the Typical Performance
Characteristics section show noise spectral density and
peak-to-peak noise characteristics for the error amplifier
for different values of bypass capacitance.
Use of a SET pin bypass capacitor also improves PSRR
and transient response performance. It is important to
note that any bypass capacitor leakage deteriorates the
LT3091’s DC regulation. Capacitor leakage of even 50nA
is a 0.1% DC error. Therefore, LTC recommends the use
of a good quality low leakage capacitor.
The final benefit of using a SET pin bypass capacitor is
that it soft starts the output and limits inrush current. The
R-C time constant, formed by the SET pin resistor and
capacitor, controls soft-start time. Ramp-up rate from 0
to 90% of nominal VOUT is:
tSS ≈ 2.3 RSET CSET
For applications requiring higher accuracy or an adjustable
output voltage, the SET pin may be actively driven by an
external voltage source capable of sourcing 50µA the
application limitations are the creativity and ingenuity of
the circuit designer. For instance, connecting a precision
voltage reference to the SET pin removes any errors in
output voltage due to the reference current and resistor
tolerances.
Shutdown/UVLO
The SHDN pin is used to put the LT3091 into a micro-
power shutdown state. The LT3091 has an accurate –1.27V
turn-ON threshold on the SHDN pin. This threshold can be
used in conjunction with a resistor divider from the input
supply to define an accurate undervoltage lockout (UVLO)
threshold for the regulator. The SHDN pin current (at the
threshold) needs to be considered when determining the
resistor divider network. See the Typical Performance
curves for SHDN pin current vs SHDN pin voltage.
Moreover, since the SHDN pin is bidirectional, it can be
taken beyond ±1.4V to turn-ON the LT3091. In bipolar
supply applications, the positive SHDN threshold can be
used to sequence the turn-ON of the LT3091 after the
positive regulator has turned on.
Current Monitoring (IMONN and IMONP)
The LT3091 incorporates a precision positive or negative
current monitor. As illustrated in the Block Diagram, the
negative current monitor pin (IMONN) sinks current pro-
portional (1:2000) to the output current while the positive
current monitor pin (IMONP) sources current proportional
(1:4000) to the output current. For proper operation, ensure
IMONN is at least 2V above IN and IMONP.
As highlighted in Figure 5, for a negative current monitor
application, tie IMONP to IN and tie IMONN through a
Figure 5: Negative Output Current Monitor
LT3091
GND
1mV PER mA
ILIM
SHDN 3091 F05
I
OUT
4000
IMONN OUT
SET
10µF
IN
VIN
–3V TO –10V IMONP
10µF
VOUT: –2.5
MAX IOUT: 1.5A
5k
0.1µF 49.9k 2k
LT3091
18
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The LT3091s positive or negative current monitor circuitry
remains accurate even under short circuit or dropout
conditions.
Externally Programmable Current Limit
The ILIM pin internally regulates to 225mV above IN.
Connecting a resistor from ILIM to IN sets the current
flowing out of the ILIM pin, which in turn programs the
LT3091’s current limit. The programming scale factor is
20kΩ A. For example, a 40k resistor between ILIM and
IN programs current limit to 500mA. For good accuracy,
Kelvin connect this resistor to the LT3091’s IN pin.
In cases where the OUT-to-IN differential is greater than
7V, the LT3091’s foldback circuitry decreases the internal
current limit. Therefore, internal current limit may over-
ride the externally programmed current limit level to keep
the LT3091 within its Safe-Operating-Area (SOA). See
the Internal Current Limit vs Input-to-Output differential
graph in the Typical Performance Characteristics section.
ILIM can be tied to IN if external programmable current
limit is not needed. However, because the ILIM pin is
internally regulated to 225mV above IN, if ILIM pin is
shorted to IN, then this loop current limits, causing the
LT3091’s quiescent current to increase by about 300µA.
Hence, when unused, it is recommended to tie ILIM to IN
through a 5k resistor.
Load Regulation
The LT3091 does not have a separate Kelvin connection
for sensing output voltage. Therefore, it is not possible
to provide true remote load sensing. The connectivity
resistance between the regulator and the load limits load
regulation. The data sheet specification for load regulation
is Kelvin sensed at the OUT pin of the package. GND side
Kelvin sensing is a true Kelvin connection, with the top of
the voltage setting resistor returned to the positive side of
the load (see Figure 8). Connected as shown, system load
regulation is the sum of the LT3091 load regulation and the
parasitic line resistance multiplied by the output current.
It is therefore important to keep the negative connection
between the regulator and the load as short as possible
and to use wide wires or PC board traces.
resistor to GND – this generates a negative voltage (pro-
portional to output current) on IMONN. Furthermore, as
illustrated in Figure 6, the negative current monitor pin
can also be used for cable drop compensation. Cable drop
compensation corrects for load dependent voltage drop
caused by a resistive connection between the LT3091’s
OUT pin and its load.
Figure 6. Simple Cable Drop Compensation
Figure 7. Positive Output Current Monitor
For a positive current monitor application, as illustrated
in Figure 7, tie IMONP through a resistor to GND—this
generates a positive voltage (proportional to output cur-
rent) on IMONP. And tie IMONN to a supply at least 2V
above the maximum operating IMONP voltage.
When unused, IMONN and IMONP pins can be left floating;
however, this slightly reduces (~5%) the device’s internal
current limit. Hence, if the current monitor functionality
is not used, as shown in Figure 1, it is recommended to
tie IMONN to GND and IMONP to IN.
LT3091
RCBL = RCBL1 + RCBL2
SET
GND
ILIM
SHDN 3091 F06
+
50µA
IMONN OUT
0.1µF
10µF
RCDC = RCBL • 2K
RSET
IN
VIN
≤–6V
IMONP
10µF
RCBL1
RCBL2
5k
LOAD
LT3091
GND
≥3.3V
ILIM 4k
1mV PER mA
SHDN
3091 F07
I
OUT
4000
IMONN OUT
SET
10µF
IN
VIN
–3V TO –10V
IMONP
10µF
VOUT: –2.5V
MAX IOUT: 1.5A
5k
0.1µF 49.9k 0.1µF
LT3091
19
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Figure 8. Connections for Best Load Regulation
Figure 9. Floating 3-Terminal Adjustable Regulator
It is important to note that in a floating configuration and
with slow VIN ramp-up and ramp-down (as shown in
Figures 10 and 11), the LT3091 may exhibit oscillations
during start-up if SHDN is tied to VIN. This occurs because
the SHDN comparator’s turn-ON and turn-OFF thresholds
are referenced to the LT3091’s GND pin . Since, in floating
configuration, the GND pin of the LT3091 is tied to the
OUT pin, which is slowly increasing as VIN is ramping up,
the reference point for the SHDN comparator is changing;
hence, it causes start-up oscillations. This oscillation can
be minimized by placing at least 0.1µF and 47µF capacitor
at the SET and OUT pins, respectively—although it won’t
be eliminated, as per Figures 10 and 11 below. For fast VIN
ramp-up and ramp-down, the LT3091 does not oscillate.
If however, the SHDN pin is tied to a positive supply, 1.3V
and above (as shown in Figure 12), then there are no
start-up oscillations and a 10µF minimum output capacitor
can be used—but having some SET pin capacitance is
still recommended. In addition to tying the GND pin to
the OUT pin (for floating configuration), the GND pin of
LT3091 can also be tied to a positive voltage as shown
in the next section.
Figure 10. Floating Mode: Input Supply Ramp-Up
Floating 3-Terminal Regulator
The LT3091’s rail-to-rail error amp allows the LDO to be
configured as a floating three-terminal regulator. With
proper protection, the LT3091 can be used in arbitrarily
high voltage applications. Figure 9 illustrates this configura-
tion. In this mode, the GND pin current is supplied by the
load; hence, a minimum 2mA load current is required to
maintain regulation. If true zero output voltage operation is
required, return the 2mA load current to a positive supply.
Note that in three terminal operation, the minimum input
voltage is now the device’s dropout voltage. Furthermore,
the ILIM pin is internally regulated to 225mV above IN.
This servo loop will current limit if ILIM is shorted to IN,
thereby causing LT3091’s quiescent current to increase
by about 300µA. Hence, when unused, it is recommended
to tie ILIM to IN through a 5k resistor.
Figure 11. Floating Mode: Input Supply Ramp-Down
VIN: –5V TO 0V
COUT: 15µF, CSET: 0.1µF
VOUT: –3V TO 0V
IL: 1.5A, SHDN = IN
1ms/DIV
VIN
2V/DIV
VOUT
1V/DIV
3091 F11
VIN: 0V TO –5V
COUT: 15µF, CSET: 0.1µF
VOUT: 0V TO –3V
IL: 1.5A, SHDN = IN
10ms/DIV
VIN
2V/DIV
VOUT
1V/DIV
3091F10
LT3091
VOUT
–2.5V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
PARASITIC
RESISTANCE
GND
ILIM
SHDN 3091 F08
+
50µA
SET
OUT
IMONN
CIN
10µF
RSET
49.9k
IN
VIN
–3V TO –10V
IMONP
RP
RP
RP
RILIM
5k
LOAD
COUT
10µF
LT3091
VOUT
–15V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
GND
ILIM
SHDN 3091 F09
+
50µA
SET
OUT
IMONN
CIN
10µF
RSET
301k
IN
VIN
–17V TO –22V
IMONP
RILIM
5k
COUT
15µF
0.1µF
LT3091
20
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GND Pin Versatility of LT3091
For applications requiring very low output voltages such
as below –1V, the minimum input voltage of –1.9V limits
how low VIN can drop before the device stops regulating. As
shown in Figure 13, this results in a much higher dropout
voltage set by the minimum VIN specification rather than
the actual dropout of the NPN pass device.
set below the LT3091’s –1.9V minimum input voltage. As
long as there is 1.9V between IN and GND pins of LT3091,
the minimum operating voltage is satisfied. Now it can
operate with much lower dropout voltage, with the device
dropout set by the pass device as illustrated in Figure 14.
Figure 12. Floating Mode: Input Supply Ramp-Up and Down
Using Positive SHDN Bias Voltage
VIN: –5V TO 0V
COUT: 15µF, CSET: 0.1µF
VOUT: –3V TO 0V
IL: 1.5A, VSHDN = 1.5V
50ms/DIV
VIN
2V/DIV
VOUT
1V/DIV
3091 F12
Figure 13. Generating Very Low Output Voltages
Figure 14. Low Dropout Operation for Very Low Output Voltages
Note that if the LT3091’s SHDN capability is not desired,
then tie the SHDN pin to VIN. However, if it is desired to
turn the device ON and OFF, then the SHDN logic signal
needs to be referenced to the LT3091’s GND pin. A simple
way to achieve this is shown Figure 15, but the GND pin
needs to be at least +1.4V.
Figure 15. GND Pin Referenced SHDN Signal
A solution to this problem is available from the LT3091
architecture and the flexibility in how its GND pin can be
connected. The GND pin does not need to be connected
to system ground! It can be connected to a positive volt-
age as well. If the GND pin of LT3091 is tied to a positive
voltage that is at least 1.9V above VIN, then VIN can be
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET
OUT
IMONN
CIN
10µF
RSET
4.02k
IN
VIN
–1.9V TO –7V
IMONP
5k
COUT
10µF
VOUT
–0.2V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
RILIM
0.1µF
3091 F13
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET
OUT
IMONN
CIN
10µF
RSET
4.02k
IN
VIN
–0.7V TO –7V
IMONP
5k
COUT
10µF
+1.2V OR HIGHER
VOUT
–0.2V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
RILIM
0.47µF
0.1µF
3091 F14
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
SHDN
(ACTIVE
LOW)
+
50µA
SET
OUT
IMONN
CIN
10µF
RSET
4.02k
IN
VIN
–0.7V TO –7V
IMONP
5k
COUT
10µF
+1.4V OR HIGHER
VOUT
–0.2V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
RILIM
0.47µF
0.1µF
3091 F15
100k
LT3091
21
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In summary, the GND pin of LT3091 is highly versatile
and can be tied to different places depending on the ap-
plication’s requirements: a) It can be tied to the system
GND for low dropout operation for output voltages greater
than –1.6V, b) it can be tied to a positive voltage for low
dropout operation for very low output voltages, and c) as
illustrated in the Floating 3-Terminal Regulator section, the
GND pin can be tied to the OUT pin for very high common
mode voltage applications.
Direct Paralleling
Higher output current is obtained by paralleling multiple
LT3091s. Tie all SET pins together and all IN pins together.
Connect the OUT pins together using small pieces of PC
trace (used as a ballast resistor) to equalize the currents
in each LT3091. PC trace resistance in mΩ/inch is shown
in Table 2. Ballasting requires only a tiny area.
Table 2. PC Board Trace Resistance
WEIGHT (oz) 10mil WIDTH* 20mil WIDTH*
1 54.3 27.1
2 27.1 13.6
*Trace resistance is measured in mΩ/in
The small worst-case offset of ±2mV for each paralleled
LT3091 minimizes the value of required ballast resistance.
Figure 16 illustrates that two LT3091s, each using a 10mΩ
PCB trace ballast resistor, provide better than 80% output
current sharing at full load. The 10mΩ external resistances
(5mΩ for the two devices in parallel) only adds 15mV of
output regulation drop with a 3A maximum load. With an
output voltage as low as –1.5V, this only adds 1% to the
regulation accuracy. If this additional load regulation error
is intolerable, circuits shown in the Typical Applications
section highlight how to correct this error using the output
current monitor function or a master-slave configuration.
Finally, note that more than two LT3091s can be paralleled
for higher output current. Paralleling multiple LT3091s is
a useful technique for distributing heat on the PCB. For
applications with high input-to-output voltage differential,
either input series resistors or resistors in parallel with
the LT3091s further spread heat.
Thermal Considerations
The LT3091 has internal power and thermal limiting cir-
cuitry designed to protect it under overload conditions. The
typical thermal shutdown temperature is 165°C with about
C of hysteresis. For continuous normal load conditions,
do not exceed the maximum junction temperature. It is
important to consider all sources of thermal resistance
from junction to ambient. This includes junction-to-case,
case-to-heat sink interface, heat sink resistance or circuit
board-to-ambient as the application dictates. Additionally,
consider all heat sources in close proximity to the LT3091.
The undersides of the DFN and TSSOP packages have
exposed metal from the lead frame to the die attachment.
Both packages allow heat to directly transfer from the die
junction to the PCB metal to limit the maximum operating
Figure 16. Parallel Devices
LT3091
VOUT
–2.5V
MAX IOUT
3A
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET
OUT
IMONN
22µF
24.9k
IN
VIN
–3V TO –10V
IMONP
5k
22µF
10mΩ
0.1µF
3091 F16
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET OUT
IMONN
IN
IMONP
5k
10mΩ
LT3091
22
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For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
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junction temperature. The dual-in-line pin arrangement
allows metal to extend beyond the ends of the package
on the topside (component side) of the PCB. Connect this
metal to IN on the PCB. The multiple IN and OUT pins of
the LT3091 further assist in spreading heat to the PCB.
For surface mount devices, heat sinking is accomplished
by using the heat spreading capabilities of the PCB and its
copper traces. Copper board stiffeners and plated through-
holes can also be used to spread the heat generated by
power devices.
Table 3. Measured Thermal Resistance for DFN Package
COPPER AREA BOARD AREA THERMAL
RESISTANCE
Top Side* Bottom Side
2500mm22500mm22500mm221°C/W
1000mm22500mm22500mm224°C/W
225mm22500mm22500mm228°C/W
100mm22500mm22500mm232°C/W
*Device is mounted on topside
Table 4. Measured Thermal Resistance for TSSOP Package
COPPER AREA BOARD AREA THERMAL
RESISTANCE
Top Side* Bottom Side
2500mm22500mm22500mm220°C/W
1000mm22500mm22500mm223°C/W
225mm22500mm22500mm226°C/W
100mm22500mm22500mm230°C/W
*Device is mounted on topside
Table 5. R Package, 7-Lead DD-Pak Package
COPPER AREA BOARD AREA THERMAL
RESISTANCE
(JUNCTION-TO-
AMBIENT)
Top Side* Bottom Side
2500mm22500mm22500mm213°C/W
1000mm22500mm22500mm214°C/W
225mm22500mm22500mm216°C/W
*Device is mounted on topside
T7 Package, 7-Lead TO-220 Thermal Resistance (Junc-
tion-to-Case) = 3°C/W
Tables 3 to 5 list thermal resistance as a function of copper
area in a fixed board size. All measurements were taken
in still air on a 4 layer FR-4 board with 1oz solid internal
planes and 2oz top/bottom external trace planes with a total
board thickness of 1.6mm. The four layers were electrically
isolated with no thermal vias present. PCB layers, copper
weight, board layout and thermal vias affect the resultant
thermal resistance. For more information on thermal
resistance and high thermal conductivity test boards,
refer to JEDEC standard JESD51, notably JESD51-7 and
JESD51-12. Achieving low thermal resistance necessitates
attentions to detail and careful PCB layout.
Calculating Junction Temperature
Example: Given an output voltage of –2.5V and input volt-
age of –3.3V ± 5%, output current range from 1mA to 1A,
and a maximum ambient temperature of 85°C, what is the
maximum junction temperature?
The LT3091’s power dissipation is:
IOUT(MAX) (VIN(MAX) – VOUT) + IGND VIN(MAX)
where:
IOUT(MAX) = –1A
VIN(MAX) = –3.465V
IGND (at IOUT = –1A and VIN = –3.465V) = –15mA
Thus:
P = (–1A) (–3.465V + 2.5V) + (–15mA) (– 3.465V)
= 1.02W
Using a DFN package, the thermal resistance is in the
range of 21°C/W to 32°C/W depending on the copper area.
Therefore, the junction temperature rise above ambient
approximately equals:
1.02W 27°C/W = 27.5°C
The maximum junction temperature equals the maxi-
mum ambient temperature plus the maximum junction
temperature rise above ambient:
TJMAX = 85°C + 27.5°C = 112.5°C
LT3091
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Overload Recovery
Like many monolithic power regulators, the LT3091 in-
corporates safe-operating-area (SOA) protection. The SOA
protection activates at output-to-input differential voltage
greater than 7V. The SOA protection decreases current
limit as the output-to-input differential increases and
keeps the power transistor inside a safe operating region
for all values of output-to-input voltage up to the LT3091’s
Absolute Maximum Ratings. The LT3091 provides some
level of output current for all values of output-to-input
differential. Refer to the Current Limit curve in the Typical
Performance Characteristics section. When power is first
applied and input voltage rises, the output follows the input
and keeps the output-to-input differential low to allow the
regulator to supply large output current and startup into
high current loads.
Due to current limit fold back, however, at high input volt-
ages, a problem can occur if the output voltage is low and
the load current is high. Such situations occur after the
removal of a short-circuit or if the shutdown pin is pulled
high after the input voltage has already turn ON. The load
line for such a load intersects the output current curve at
two points. If this happens, the regulator has two stable
output operating points. With this double intersection, the
input power supply may need to be cycled down to zero
and brought back up again to make the output recover.
Other LTC negative linear regulators such as the LT3015,
LT1964, and LT1175 also exhibit this phenomenon, so it
is not unique to the LT3091.
Protection Features
The LT3091 incorporates several protection features that
make it ideal for use in battery-powered applications. In
addition to the normal protection features associated
with monolithic regulators, such as current limiting and
thermal limiting, the device also protects itself against
reverse output voltages.
Precision current limit and thermal overload protection
protect the LT3091 against overload and fault conditions
at the device’s output. For normal operation, do not al-
low the junction temperature to exceed 125°C for E- and
I-grades and 150°C for H- and MP-grades.
Pulling the LT3091’s output above ground induces no
damage to the part. If IN is left open circuited or grounded,
OUT can be pulled 36V above GND. In this condition, a
maximum current of 7mA flows into the OUT pin and out
of the GND pin. If IN is powered by a voltage source, OUT
sinks the LT3091’s (fold back) short-circuit current and
protects itself by thermal limiting. In this case, however,
grounding the SHDN pin turns off the device and stops
OUT from sinking the short-circuit current.
LT3091
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For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
Parallel Devices
Typical applicaTions
LT3091
VOUT
–2.5V
MAX IOUT
3A
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET OUT
IMONN
22µF
24.9k
1%
IN
VIN
–3V TO –10V
IMONP
5k
22µF
10mΩ
0.1µF
3091 TA02
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET
OUT
IMONN
IN
IMONP
5k
10mΩ
LT3091
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For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
Typical applicaTions
Paralleling Devices Using IMONN to Cancel Ballast Resistor Drop
Load Sharing without Ballasting (Using IMONP)
Master Regulator Slave Regulator
LT3091
VOUT
–2.5V
MAX IOUT
3A
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET OUT
IMONN
22µF
24.9k
1%
IN
VIN
–3V TO –10V
IMONP
5k
RBLST
10mΩ
CSET
0.1µF
3091 TA03
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET
OUT
IMONN
IN
IMONP
5k
RCOMP
10 RCOMP = 2K • RBLST/N
VOUT = N • 50µA(RSET + RCOMP)
N = NUMBER OF LT3091s IN PARALLEL
RBLST
10mΩ
22µF
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
SET
OUT
IMONN
22µF
49.9k
1%
IN
VIN
–3V TO –10V
IMONP
5k
3091 TA04
0.1µF
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
SETIMONN
VOUT: –2.5V
MAX IOUT: 3A
IN
IMONP
5k
300Ω
300Ω
2N3904 2N3904
0.1µF
22µF
49.9k
1%
+
50µA
+
50µA
OUT
LT3091
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Paralleling Devices without Ballasting (50mA Minimum Load)
Using Lower Value RSET for Higher Output Voltages
Typical applicaTions
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET OUT
IMONN
22µF
49.9k
1%
Master Regulator
Slave Regulator
IN
VIN
–3V TO –10V
IMONP
5k
20Ω
0.1µF
22µF
3091 TA05
LT3091
GND SET
ILIM SHDN
+
50µA
OUT IMONN
IN
IMONP
5k
VOUT
–2.5V
IOUT
3A
20mΩ
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET OUT
IMONN
CIN
10µF
10k
1%
RSET
IN
VIN
IMONP
5k
0.1µF
COUT
10µF
3091 TA06
VOUT = –0.5V – 1mA • RSET
MAX IOUT: 1.5A
523Ω
1%
LT3091
27
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
Constant-Current Constant-Voltage Lab Power Supply
Low Dropout Operation for Very Low Output Voltages
Typical applicaTions
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
3091 TA07
+
50µA
SET
0.1µF
OUT
IMONN
10µF
RSET
VOUT
IN
VIN
IMONP
RILIM
10µF
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET OUT
IMONN
CIN
10µF
4.02k
1%
IN
VIN
–0.7V TO –7V
IMONP
5k
0.1µF COUT
10µF
3091 TA08
VOUT: –0.2V
MAX IOUT: 1.5A
+1.2V OR HIGHER
CGND
0.47µF
LT3091
28
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
Input Supply Tracking
Floating 3-Terminal Regulator (for Arbitrarily High Voltage Applications)
Typical applicaTions
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN 3091 TA09
+
50µA
SET
0.1µF
OUT
IMONN
10µF
100k
1%
VOUT = VIN – 5V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
VIN
IN
IMONP
5k
10µF
LT3091
GND
ILIM
36V
36V
SHDN
3091 TA10
+
50µA
SET
0.1µF
OUT
IMONN
10µF
VIN
–52V TO –57V
1M
1%
VOUT
–50V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
IN
IMONP
5k
10µF
LT3091
29
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
500mA LED Driver with Grounded LED Tab (Heatsink) 500mA LED Driver with Positive Supply
Low Noise Single Inductor Positive-to-Negative Converter
Typical applicaTions
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN 3091 TA11
+
50µA
SET OUT
IMONN
10µF
VIN
400mΩ
10µF
IN
IMONP
5k
4.02k 500mA
V
IN
GND
ILIM
SHDN 3091 TA12
+
50µA
LT3091
SET OUT
IMONN
10µF
400mΩ
10µF
IN
IMONP
5k
4.02k 500mA
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN 3091 TA13
+
50µA
SET
0.1µF
OUT
IMONN
10µF
1206
49.9k
1%
VOUT2
–2.5V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
IN
IMONP
5k
10µF
1206
VIN
12V
100k
60.4k
124k
C1
22µF
3.3nF
0.1µF
C3
22µF
6.8k
VOUT
–5V
1.5A
C2
F
SW1 SW2
FB
CLKOUT
GATE
VC
SS
VIN
RT
GND
SYNC
FAULT
SHDN
LT3581
56pF
C1: 22µF, 25V, X7R, 1210
C2: 1µF, 50V, X7R, 1206
C3: 22µF, 16V, X7R, 1210
D1: CENTRAL CMSH3-40FL
L1, L2: COILCRAFT MSD7342-332MLB
L2
3.3µH
D1
L1
3.3µH
LT3091
30
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
High Efficiency Low Noise Single Inductor Positive-to-Negative Converter with LDO Input-to-Output Control
Typical applicaTions
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
3091 TA14
SET
0.1µF
10µF
OUT
IMONP
1M
VOUT
–2.5V
MAX IOUT
1.5mA
IN
IMONN
LT8612
VIN
RUN/S
SYNC
PG
TR/SS
RT
GND PGND
INTVCC
BIAS
BST
SW
FB
L: COILCRAFT XAL5030-222ME
VIN
12V
VOUT – 2V
49.9k
4.99k
1M
143k
L
2.2µH
60.4k 1M
1nF
F
10pF
47µF
10µF
LT3091
31
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
12V to ±3.3V Low Noise Power Supply
Typical applicaTions
3091 TA15
LT3081
IN
SET
OUT
22µF
VOUT1
3.3V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
TEMP ILIM
IMON
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
ISET
50µA
SET
0.1µF
OUT
IMONN
10µF
66.5k
1%
VOUT2
–3.3V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
IN
IMONP
5k
0.1µF 66.5k
1%
22µF
–5V
5V
10µF
+
SWB2
SWA2
SWB1
SWA1
LT8582
PG1
SYNC1
CLKOUT1
CLKOUT2
100k
SYNC2
PG2
VIN2
SHDN2
VIN1
SHDN1
VC1
SS1
RT1
GND
RT2
SS2
GATE2
VC2
FBX2
FBX1
GATE1
VIN
12V
0.1µF
0.1µF
1.5nF
47pF
47pF
18.7k
13k
100k
60.4k
L3
4.7µH
L1
4.7µH
L2
4.7µH
2.2nF
45.3k
COUT2
22µF
×2
COUT1
22µF
×2
115k
115k
CIN2
22µF
CIN1, CIN2: 22µF, 25V, X7R, 1210
COUT1, COUT2: 22µF, 16V, X7R, 1210
C1, C2: 2.2µF, 50V, X7R, 1206
D1, D2: CENTRAL CMSH3-40FL
L1, L2: WÜRTH WE TDC 74489440047
L3, L4: WÜRTH WE TDC 74489440047
C1
2.2µF D1
CIN1
22µF
D2
L4
4.7µH
C2
2.2µF
LT3091
32
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
Reference Buffer
Coincident Tracking Supplies
Typical applicaTions
3091 TA17
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET
R1
49.9k
1%
OUT
IMONN
CIN
22µF
VOUT1, –2.5V
1.5A
VOUT2, –3.3V
1.5A
VOUT3, –5V
1.5A
IN
IMONP
5k
COUT
10µF
VIN
–5.5V TO –10V
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET OUT
IMONN
IN
IMONP
5k
COUT
10µF
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET OUT
IMONN
IN
IMONP
5k
COUT
10µF
R3
34k
1%
R2
16.2k
1%
3091 TA16
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET
LT1004-2.5
OUT
IMONN
CIN
10µF
VOUT
–2.5V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
IN
IMONP
5k
COUT
10µF
VIN
–3V TO –10V
LT3091
33
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
Low Noise 4-Quadrant Power Supply
Simple Cable Drop Compensation
Typical applicaTions
3091 TA18
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET
0.1µF OUT
IMONN
10µF
100k
1% VOUT
–5V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
IN
IMONP
5k
RCDC = RCBL • 2k
VIN
≤ –6V
RCBL = RCBL1 + RCBL2
10µF
RCBL1
RCBL2
LOAD
3091 TA19
10µF
LT3081
CTRL
VCC
+
SET OUT
IN
22µF
OPT
LT3091
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
SET OUTIMONN
10µF
VOUT
(SOURCE/SINK 1.5A)
VEE + VDROPOUT (LT3091) ≤ VOUT ≤ VCC – VDROPOUT (LT3081)
VSET
IN
IMONP
5k
14mΩ
14mΩ
VEE
10µF
10µF
50µA
ILIM
TEMP
IMON
LT3091
34
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
2-Terminal Current Source
Positive Output Current Monitor
Negative Output Current Monitor
Typical applicaTions
VIN
GND
ILIM
SHDN
3091 TA20
+
50µA
LT3091
SET OUT
IMONN
IOUT = 200mV/R1
IN
IMONP
5k
10µF
4.02k, 1%
R1
GND
ILIM
SHDN
3091 TA21
+
50µA
LT3091
SET OUT
IMONP VOUT
–2.5V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
IN IMONN
5k
10µF
49.9k
1%
10µF
0.1µF
3V
0.1µF 2.67k
TO ADC
VIN
–3V TO –10V
GND
IMONP ILIM
SHDN 3091 TA22
+
50µA
LT3091
SET OUT
IMONN VOUT
–2.5V
MAX IOUT
1.5A
IN
10µF
5k
49.9k
1% 10µF
0.1µF
TO ADC
1.33k
VIN
–3V TO –10V
LT3091
35
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
3.00 ±0.10
(2 SIDES)
4.00 ±0.10
(2 SIDES)
NOTE:
1. DRAWING PROPOSED TO BE MADE VARIATION OF VERSION (WGED-3) IN JEDEC
PACKAGE OUTLINE MO-229
2. DRAWING NOT TO SCALE
3. ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN MILLIMETERS
4. DIMENSIONS OF EXPOSED PAD ON BOTTOM OF PACKAGE DO NOT INCLUDE
MOLD FLASH. MOLD FLASH, IF PRESENT, SHALL NOT EXCEED 0.15mm ON ANY SIDE
5. EXPOSED PAD SHALL BE SOLDER PLATED
6. SHADED AREA IS ONLY A REFERENCE FOR PIN 1 LOCATION ON THE
TOP AND BOTTOM OF PACKAGE
0.40 ±0.10
BOTTOM VIEW—EXPOSED PAD
1.70 ±0.10
0.75 ±0.05
R = 0.115
TYP
R = 0.05
TYP
3.00 REF
1.70 ±0.05
17
148
PIN 1
TOP MARK
(SEE NOTE 6)
0.200 REF
0.00 – 0.05
(DE14) DFN 0806 REV B
PIN 1 NOTCH
R = 0.20 OR
0.35 × 45°
CHAMFER
3.00 REF
RECOMMENDED SOLDER PAD PITCH AND DIMENSIONS
APPLY SOLDER MASK TO AREAS THAT ARE NOT SOLDERED
2.20 ±0.05
0.70 ±0.05
3.60 ±0.05
PACKAGE
OUTLINE
0.25 ±0.05
0.25 ±0.05
0.50 BSC
3.30 ±0.05
3.30 ±0.10
0.50 BSC
DE Package
14-Lead Plastic DFN (4mm × 3mm)
(Reference LTC DWG # 05-08-1708 Rev B)
package DescripTion
Please refer to http://www.linear.com/product/LT3091#packaging for the most recent package drawings.
LT3091
36
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
FE16 (BC) TSSOP REV K 1013
0.09 – 0.20
(.0035 – .0079)
0° – 8°
0.25
REF
0.50 – 0.75
(.020 – .030)
4.30 – 4.50*
(.169 – .177)
1 3 4 5678
10
DETAIL B IS THE PART OF
THE LEAD FRAME FEATURE
FOR REFERENCE ONLY
NO MEASUREMENT PURPOSE
9
4.90 – 5.10*
(.193 – .201)
16 1514 13 12 11
1.10
(.0433)
MAX
0.05 – 0.15
(.002 – .006)
0.65
(.0256)
BSC
2.94
(.116)
0.48
(.019)
REF
0.51
(.020)
REF
0.195 – 0.30
(.0077 – .0118)
TYP
2
RECOMMENDED SOLDER PAD LAYOUT
0.45 ±0.05
0.65 BSC
4.50 ±0.10
6.60 ±0.10
1.05 ±0.10
2.94
(.116)
3.58
(.141)
3.58
(.141)
MILLIMETERS
(INCHES)
*DIMENSIONS DO NOT INCLUDE MOLD FLASH. MOLD FLASH
SHALL NOT EXCEED 0.150mm (.006") PER SIDE
NOTE:
1. CONTROLLING DIMENSION: MILLIMETERS
2. DIMENSIONS ARE IN
3. DRAWING NOT TO SCALE
4. RECOMMENDED MINIMUM PCB METAL SIZE
FOR EXPOSED PAD ATTACHMENT
SEE NOTE 4
SEE NOTE 5
5. BOTTOM EXPOSED PADDLE MAY HAVE METAL
PROTRUSION IN THIS AREA. THIS REGION MUST
BE FREE OF ANY EXPOSED TRACES OR VIAS ON
PCB LAYOUT
6.40
(.252)
BSC
FE Package
16-Lead Plastic TSSOP (4.4mm)
(Reference LTC DWG # 05-08-1663 Rev K)
Exposed Pad Variation BC
DETAIL B
4.60
package DescripTion
Please refer to http://www.linear.com/product/LT3091#packaging for the most recent package drawings.
LT3091
37
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
R (DD7) 0212 REV F
.026 – .035
(0.660 – 0.889)
TYP
.143 +.012
–.020
( )
3.632+0.305
–0.508
.050
(1.27)
BSC
.013 – .023
(0.330 – 0.584)
.095 – .115
(2.413 – 2.921)
.004 +.008
–.004
( )
0.102+0.203
–0.102
.050 ±.012
(1.270 ±0.305)
.059
(1.499)
TYP
.045 – .055
(1.143 – 1.397)
.165 – .180
(4.191 – 4.572)
.330 – .370
(8.382 – 9.398)
.060
(1.524)
TYP
.390 – .415
(9.906 – 10.541)
15° TYP
.420
.350
.585
.090
.035
.050
.325
.205
.080
.585
RECOMMENDED SOLDER PAD LAYOUT
FOR THICKER SOLDER PASTE APPLICATIONS
RECOMMENDED SOLDER PAD LAYOUT
.090
.035.050
.420
.276
.320
NOTE:
1. DIMENSIONS IN INCH/(MILLIMETER)
2. DRAWING NOT TO SCALE
.300
(7.620)
.075
(1.905)
.183
(4.648)
.060
(1.524)
.060
(1.524)
.256
(6.502)
BOTTOM VIEW OF DD PAK
HATCHED AREA IS SOLDER PLATED
COPPER HEAT SINK
R Package
7-Lead Plastic DD Pak
(Reference LTC DWG # 05-08-1462 Rev F)
DETAIL A
DETAIL A
0° – 7° TYP0° – 7° TYP
package DescripTion
Please refer to http://www.linear.com/product/LT3091#packaging for the most recent package drawings.
LT3091
38
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
Information furnished by Linear Technology Corporation is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, no responsibility is assumed for its use. Linear Technology Corporation makes no representa-
tion that the interconnection of its circuits as described herein will not infringe on existing patent rights.
.050
(1.27)
.026 – .036
(0.660 – 0.914)
T7 (TO-220) 0801
.135 – .165
(3.429 – 4.191)
.700 – .728
(17.780 – 18.491)
.045 – .055
(1.143 – 1.397)
.165 – .180
(4.191 – 4.572)
.095 – .115
(2.413 – 2.921)
.013 – .023
(0.330 – 0.584)
.620
(15.75)
TYP
.155 – .195*
(3.937 – 4.953)
.152 – .202
(3.860 – 5.130)
.260 – .320
(6.604 – 8.128)
.147 – .155
(3.734 – 3.937)
DIA
.390 – .415
(9.906 – 10.541)
.330 – .370
(8.382 – 9.398)
.460 – .500
(11.684 – 12.700)
.570 – .620
(14.478 – 15.748)
.230 – .270
(5.842 – 6.858)
BSC
SEATING PLANE
*MEASURED AT THE SEATING PLANE
T7 Package
7-Lead Plastic TO-220 (Standard)
(Reference LTC DWG # 05-08-1422)
package DescripTion
Please refer to http://www.linear.com/product/LT3091#packaging for the most recent package drawings.
LT3091
39
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
revision hisTory
REV DATE DESCRIPTION PAGE NUMBER
A 03/16 Revised Output Offset Voltage VOS conditions and specs 3
LT3091
40
3091fa
For more information www.linear.com/LT3091
LINEAR TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION 2015
LT 0316 REV A • PRINTED IN USA
Linear Technology Corporation
1630 McCarthy Blvd., Milpitas, CA 95035-7417
(408) 432-1900 FAX: (408) 434-0507 www.linear.com/LT3091
relaTeD parTs
Typical applicaTion
PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION COMMENTS
LT1185 3A, Negative Linear Regulator 750mV Dropout Voltage, VIN = –4.3V to –35V, DD-PAK and TO-220 Packages
LT1175 500mA, Negative Low Dropout
Micropower Regulator 500mV Dropout Voltage, VIN = –4.5V to –20V, N8, S8, DD-PAK, TO-220 and SOT-223
LT1964 200mA, Negative Low Noise Low Dropout
Regulator 340mV Dropout Voltage, Low Noise: 30µVRMS, VIN = –1.9V to –20V, DFN and SOT-23
Packages
LT3015 1.5A, Fast Transient Response, Negative
LDO Regulator 310mV Dropout Voltage, Low Noise: 60µVRMS, VIN = –2.3V to –30V, DFN, MSOP,
TO-220 and DD-PAK Packages
LT3080 1.1A, Parallelable, Low Noise, Low
Dropout Linear Regulator 350mV Dropout Voltage (2-Supply Operation), Low Noise: 40µVRMS, VIN: 1.2V to 36V,
Single Resistor Output, DFN, MSOP, TO-220, DD and SOT-223 Packages
LT3085 500mA, Parallelable, Low Noise, Low
Dropout Linear Regulator 275mV Dropout Voltage (2-Supply Operation), Low Noise: 40µVRMS, VIN: 1.2V to 36V,
Single Resistor Output, DFN, MSOP
LT3082 200mA, Parallelable, Low Noise, Low
Dropout Linear Regulator Low Noise: 33µVRMS, VIN: 1.2V to 40V, Single Resistor Output, DFN, SOT-223 and SOT-23
Packages
LT3081 1.5A, Parallelable, Low Noise, Low
Dropout Linear Regulator Low Noise: 27µVRMS, VIN: 1.2V to 36V, Single Resistor Output, DFN, FE, DD-PAK and
TO-220 Packages
LT3083 3A, Parallelable, Low Noise, Low Dropout
Linear Regulator 310mV Dropout Voltage (2-Supply Operation), Low Noise: 40µVRMS, VIN: 1.2V to 23V,
Single Resistor Output, DFN, TSSOP, TO-220 and DD Packages
LT3090 –36V, 600mA Negative Linear Regulator
with Programmable Current Limit 300mV Dropout Voltage, Low Noise: 18µVRMS, VIN: –1.5V to –36V,
Single Resistor Output, DFN and MSOP Packages
Parallel Devices
VIN
–3V TO –10V
GND
ILIM
SHDN
+
50µA
LT3091
SET OUT
IMONN VOUT
–2.5V
MAX IOUT
3A
IN
IMONP
5k
22µF
ILIM
SHDN IMONP
5k
24.9k
1% 22µF
0.1µF
10mΩ
10mΩ
GND
3091 TA23
+
50µA
LT3091
SET
OUT
IMONN
IN